The sculpture, entitled Globe Head Ballerina and featuring a life-sized, spinning ballerina encased within a giant ‘snow globe’, was based upon a photograph of Margot Fonteyn. Typical of Shonibare’s previous work, the dancer has Victorian-style globe as her head, reflecting the international work of the Royal Opera House and the universality of ballet as an art form. The piece will stay in place for five years and is part of the London 2012 Festival.

Of the commission, Yinka said:

“This piece is about bringing the childhood sense of magic and wonder to the façade of the Royal Opera House in a very grown up piece of public sculpture that can be enjoyed by all. It’s like a life-size fairytale ballerina jewellery box that will spin”

Yinka based the ballerina on Royal Ballet soloist Melissa Hamilton. The figure has been made using traditional sculptural methods and then cast in fibreglass. The dancer is wearing a tutu made of fabrics synonymous with Shonibare’s work.

The artist will curate this year’s Deloitte Ignite from Friday 31 August – Sunday 2 September.